Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a delightful twist? Dive into the creamy goodness of our "Creamy Mac Cheese with Cauliflower" that promises to satisfy your cravings while sneaking in some nutritious veggies! This American classic takes only 45 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With a luscious, cheesy sauce made from wholesome ingredients, you won't believe how easy it is to create a dish that's both indulgent and healthy. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this deliciously creamy mac and cheese that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your body!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 small head cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of elbow macaroni, 1 small head of cauliflower chopped into small florets, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 cup of nutritional yeast, 1/2 cup of almond milk, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cauliflower. In a separate pot, add the chopped cauliflower and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Once the cauliflower is tender, remove the pot from heat. Carefully transfer the cauliflower and vegetable broth to a blender or food processor. Add the nutritional yeast, almond milk, olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Pour the creamy cauliflower sauce over the macaroni and stir well to combine, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated.
- Place the pot over low heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat and taste the mac and cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the creamy mac cheese with cauliflower hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional nutritional yeast if desired. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s just al dente. This ensures that the pasta holds its shape and texture once mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Cauliflower Cooking: For the best flavor and texture, steam the cauliflower in vegetable broth instead of water. This adds a depth of flavor to your sauce.
- Blend Smoothly: When blending the cauliflower sauce, ensure it’s completely smooth for that velvety mac and cheese experience. If your blender struggles, add a little more almond milk to help it along.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to taste your sauce before mixing it with the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick!
- Garnish for Flair: For an extra touch, serve your creamy mac cheese with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or sprinkle some additional nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor boost.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or peas, for added nutrition and color. You can also stir in some cooked protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.Enjoy crafting this creamy delight, and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your household!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
